12The hireling [working for a salary] does not own the sheep like the [good] shepherd; so when he sees a wolf coming, he leaves the sheep and flees. Then the wolf seizes the sheep and scatters them.[The hireling is a preacher taking a salary, soliciting contributions, or soliciting love gifts; he works for money, and he is not leading the sheep because of his love for them. So, when any danger threatens, he abandons the congregation. In contrast, because a good shepherd loves the sheep, he will risk his life to save the sheep. A true preacher is authorized by the Lord, has been perfected by the Master, and the Lord dwells in him, guiding his every action and his every word.]

8Neither did we eat any man's bread without paying for it, but labored and toiled night and day, so that we might not be a burden to any of you,

9 Not because we did not have the right, but to make ourselves an example for you to follow.

10 For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: "If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat." [This applies to preachers also; Paul just stated in the previous verse, he worked as an example to all believers, which would include preachers.]